Without my mom to cook for me at school, I survive on Kraft Mac & Cheese, sandwiches, and cereal. So I always make sure to get in all my favorite meals before I leave for the school year, cooked both by my mom and by some of my favorite spots in New Jersey.

Bagels 4 U

Growing up in New Jersey has made me a little bit of a bagel snob. When I leave for school, I know that I won't have a good bagel for the next few months and make sure to grab at least one fresh bagel before I leave. My go-to order is Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel.

Florham Park Pizza

Just like bagels, there's no better pizza than one made in New Jersey. So obviously before going back to school I have to order a pie. And eat as many slices as I possibly can before exploding. Which pizzeria is the best is highly debated topic, however my personal favorite is Florham Park Pizza. If you're like me and like your food to be a little spicy, my suggestion is the buffalo chicken pizza.

Cuban Pete's

ropa vieja.

Thatcher McGhee's

If you've ever traveled to Ireland, and miss it a lot, like I do, Thatcher McGhee's gives you a taste of Ireland while still being in the states. The relaxed vibe and dark lighting resembles an actual Irish pub. The Guinness BBQ Wings are a great shareable dish, but for a main course try either Guinness Cheddar Burger or the Shepherd's Pie.

New Jersey food as definitely spoiled me and I always miss it while I'm away. Then again, I do the same thing when I go home from school too. So maybe I just have a serious obsession with food.